Enterprise, Web and Mobile Course Development Through Frameworks and Code Generators

This paper outlines and describes a set of open learning modules that leverage software frameworks and code generators. This efficiency allows students to build a large-scale software system in a single course. But the modules can be used in a variety of classes, including web development, mobile development, enterprise computing and capstone courses.These modules are freely available on the Internet. There are several advantages to using them. They will allow students in web development courses to access relational databases. Students in mobile development courses can also access data from databases through a web service.Students learn how large-scale software systems are built. These systems have scalability, failover and load balancing. Other advanced topics in the courses include creating and calling web services.The modules use free, open-source software that is used in industry giving students valuable skills and material for their resumes. Videos within labs walk students through each step in building a software system that has a relational database, middle-tier with business logic, web interface, mobile interface, desktop interface and web services.These modules have been used at two universities over eight years for around 400 students. A case study of this experience is included.Even though the material in the module covers many topics, they can be completed in only seven weeks. This leaves students time to independently use these skills to build a system of their choosing. Allowing students to build what they would like to build promotes involvement and encourages learning.